AUSTIN, TX- The University of St. Thomas Women's Soccer team hit the road to Austin, TX, to face conference opponent Concordia University at the Round Rock Multipurpose Complex. The Celts looked to build on their outstanding season record and did just that, earning a 3-0 victory over the Tornados. This marks their fourth straight win, improving their overall record to 9-1-4 and conference record to 6-0-2.

From the opening whistle, the Celts came out strong with an early on-goal shot from Kaylee Cruzco, setting the tone for what would be an assertive performance. Both teams traded early attempts before UST broke through just 12 minutes into the match, as Ashlee Stoltje found the back of the net to give the Celts a 1-0 lead. Fueled by the momentum, UST continued to control possession and applied pressure to Concordia's defense with a series of shots from Stoltje, Alicia Chi, and Amy Romero that tested the Tornados' keeper throughout the half.

With halftime approaching, the Celts struck again. At the 40th minute, Stoltje earned her second goal of the match, utilizing a well-placed assist from Jaida Rodea, extending the lead to 2-0. UST maintained to keep up their offensive efforts, with late first-half attempts from Stoltje and Emma Cerda keeping the Tornados on edge. The Celts entered halftime ahead, with a confident 2-0 lead.

In the second half, Concordia looked to create challenges for UST; however, the Celts stood firm. Taking advantage of their possession, UST found solid support from goalkeeper Kylie Soich, who made nearly four crucial saves midway through the half to maintain the shutout. With the Celts finding their rhythm and executing clean passes, Nicole Cruzco fired off an on-goal shot that reignited the team's energy. Soich continued to protect the post with two more saves, setting up UST for another scoring opportunity. At the 79th minute, Nicole Cruzco scored with a double assist from Andrea Chavez Rosales and Emma Cerda to put the Celts up 3-0. The Celts closed out the match maintaining full control of the ball and a solid defensive front, allowing no further shots from the Tornados. Fernanda Alvarado made one final attempt for UST before the final whistle blew, sealing the 3-0 victory.

With the Tornados in for a whirl, their efforts proved to be no match for UST's composure and teamwork. The Celts continue to display their growth and dominance this season as they remain one game away from a potential SCAC Title for this 2025 season, and are currently placed at 2nd in the standings.

Match Notes:
-Goals: Ashlee Stoltje (12') (40') and Nicole Cruzco (79') 
-N. Cruzco scores her first goal of the season and as a Celt!
-High Shooting Game: 17, 13 on goal
-Kylie Soich recorded 7 saves 

Up Next:
The Celts will return to their home field in Houston, TX at SaberCats Stadium as the host Texas Lutheran University. The Match is set for Sunday, Oct. 26th @12:00 PM. Follow the Celts at www.ustcelts.com or on Instagram @ustwsoccer.